Experience & Awards

I have been wagering professionally on sports and horse racing for 30 years.

My picks have been documented for 22 years.

I was the 2009 NFL Handicapper of the Year in 2009 in a prestigious event. I won the Ultimate Football NFL Championship in 2006.

I have been an NBA World Champion with 9 winning seasons the last 11 years.

I also continue to beat the College Hoops book makers with a high volume attack on a yearly basis.

Handicapping Approach

I have a firm belief in my systems. There is not a sport I feel I can not beat.

My handicapping can be best referred to as the 'The Smart Money Approach". I leave no stone unturned. I have a large database of information and statistics. I also take into consideration injuries, current and historical trends, and form. I also factor in the weather, surface conditions, and line movement.

Sports Betting Is An Investment

Many gamblers offer causal explanations for long runs of good and bad performance. The same is true of financial analysts. The records of bettors and investors show the same variable successes and failures.

Both investment opportunities show significant variables and both can give the investor an advantage. You need to do the proper research to consider all the facts. If you do so a long term profit is more than attainable.

I think sports betting is even better than the stock market. The investor/bettor has much more control over his funds. You can take a short break, and almost always know your bankroll has not been untouched.

In the markets you are leaving your 401K and other mutual investments in the hands of a volatile marketplace. Plus, you are being torched for huge handling fees by brokers on individual investments. These fees would make sports book managers drool.

I am not saying it is easy making a living from sports betting. But, the small percent who do consistently beat the books have a much better rate of return than that of any market investor!

This is the outlook I have on every wager I place in the sports wagering markets. I take my portfolio very seriously!

Money Management

To be a successful and profitable sports bettor you must always have a long term goal. Set that standard before you begin. You need to set aside a fairly substantial bankroll.

If you want to be conservative you would wager no more than 1-2% of your bankroll per game. No more than 3% on the best bets.

This might seem a little on the low side. But, this is a long and turbulent battle with the books. You will be happy that you practiced good money management and frugality.

Here are some additional guidelines I recommend.

1. Shop for your best possible lines (rogue lines) from the most reputable sources.

2. Stay disciplined and do not stray from recommended bankroll allocation on individual wagers. Chasing your wagers never a good idea.

3. Always keep in mind that your bankroll is your life line. It must be treated the same way you would treat finances allocated for any business venture.

4. Buy off the hook on key numbers. ( Basketball only)

5. Understanding the importance and the art of middling.

6. Keep a record of all your wagers and results and use them as part of over all statistical data base.

These are some important factors that will help you in your quest for long term profits.

I leave you with a thought from the late great Jimmy the Greek. The house does not beat the player, it just gives him the opportunity to beat himself.

*All selections have the same allocated bankroll %(which equals 1 betting unit).

# Mastering Money Management in Sports Betting: A Guide to Sustainable Wagering

Sports betting has surged in popularity, transforming from a niche hobby into a mainstream entertainment option accessible via apps and online platforms. However, amid the thrill of predicting game outcomes and cheering for your picks, one critical aspect often gets overlooked: proper money management. Without it, even the sharpest bettors can find themselves in financial trouble. This article explores the fundamentals of money management in sports betting, offering practical strategies to help you bet responsibly and sustainably. Remember, the goal isn't just to win big—it's to protect your funds and enjoy the process over the long haul.

## Understanding Bankroll Management: Your Foundation for Success

At the core of effective money management is the concept of a "bankroll"—the total amount of money you've set aside exclusively for betting. This isn't your rent money, grocery budget, or emergency fund; it's disposable income you can afford to lose without impacting your daily life.

Start by determining your bankroll size based on your financial situation. A common rule of thumb is to allocate no more than 1-5% of your monthly disposable income to betting. For example, if you have $1,000 as your initial bankroll, treat it as a finite resource that needs careful stewardship.

Why is this important? Sports betting is inherently unpredictable. Streaks of wins and losses are normal, and poor bankroll management can lead to quick depletion during downswings. By viewing your bankroll as a business investment rather than play money, you shift your mindset from impulsive gambling to strategic wagering.

## Unit Sizing: Betting Smarter, Not Harder

Once your bankroll is established, implement unit sizing—a system where you bet a consistent percentage of your bankroll on each wager, rather than flat amounts. This approach minimizes risk and allows your bets to scale with your funds.

- Define Your Unit: A standard unit is 1-2% of your bankroll. For a $1,000 bankroll, a 1% unit would be $10 per bet. This keeps losses manageable; even a string of 10 losses would only cost you $100, leaving plenty of room to recover.

- Adjust for Confidence: While sticking to your unit size is key, you might occasionally vary it slightly based on perceived value. For instance, on high-confidence bets (backed by thorough research), go up to 2-3 units. But never exceed 5% on any single wager to avoid catastrophic losses.

- Reevaluate Periodically: As your bankroll grows or shrinks, recalculate your unit size. If your $1,000 bankroll swells to $1,500 after a winning streak, your 1% unit becomes $15. Conversely, if it drops to $800, scale back to $8 per unit.

This method promotes discipline and prevents emotional decisions, like doubling down after a loss to "get even."

## Avoiding Common Pitfalls: The Enemies of Sound Money Management

Even seasoned bettors fall into traps that undermine their financial strategy. Recognizing and sidestepping these can make all the difference.

- Chasing Losses: After a bad beat, the temptation to bet more aggressively to recoup losses is strong. This "tilt" mentality often leads to bigger deficits. Instead, stick to your unit size and take breaks if emotions run high.

- Overbetting on Parlays and Props: High-payout bets like parlays (combining multiple outcomes) can be alluring, but they carry higher house edges. Limit them to a small portion of your action—say, no more than 10-20% of your weekly bets—and treat them as fun side wagers, not core strategies.

- Ignoring the Vig: The "vig" or juice is the bookmaker's cut, typically 10% on standard bets (e.g., -110 odds mean you risk $110 to win $100). Factor this into your calculations; aim for bets where you believe the true probability exceeds the implied odds after vig.

- Mixing Betting with Alcohol or Distractions: Decisions made under the influence or during heated game moments are rarely rational. Set your bets in advance and review them soberly.

## Advanced Strategies: Building Long-Term Profitability

For those looking to elevate their game, incorporate these techniques into your routine:

- Kelly Criterion: This mathematical formula helps determine optimal bet sizes based on your edge. The basic version is: Bet Size = (Bankroll * (Probability of Winning - (1 - Probability of Winning) / Odds)) / Odds. Use it conservatively—many pros apply half-Kelly to reduce volatility.

- Diversification: Spread your bets across different sports, leagues, and bet types (e.g., moneylines, spreads, totals) to mitigate risk. Avoid putting all your units on one game or event.

- Tracking and Analysis: Maintain a detailed log of every bet, including stake, odds, outcome, and rationale. Tools like spreadsheets or betting apps can help identify patterns, such as which sports you excel in or common mistakes. Review monthly to refine your approach.

- Setting Limits and Goals: Establish win/loss stops—e.g., quit for the day after winning 20% of your session bankroll or losing 10%. Also, set realistic profit goals; aiming for 5-10% monthly returns is more sustainable than chasing 100% gains.

## The Role of Responsible Gambling: Beyond the Numbers

Money management isn't just about math—it's about mindset. Always bet within your means and recognize when it's time to step back.

In conclusion, proper money management turns sports betting from a risky gamble into a calculated pursuit. By prioritizing your bankroll, using unit sizing, avoiding pitfalls, and employing advanced strategies, you'll not only protect your finances but also enhance your enjoyment of the games. Bet smart, stay disciplined, and remember: the house always has an edge, but with sound management, you can tilt the odds in your favor over time

The History of Sports Betting: From Ancient Wagers to Modern Markets

Introduction

Sports betting, the act of wagering on the outcome of athletic events, has been an integral part of human culture for millennia. It combines the thrill of competition with the allure of risk and reward, transforming spectators into active participants. From casual bets among friends to sophisticated global markets valued in the billions, sports betting has evolved alongside society, influenced by technological advancements, legal frameworks, and cultural shifts. Today, it is a mainstream industry, legalized in numerous countries and generating significant revenue for governments and businesses alike. But its roots stretch back to antiquity, where gambling on games served not only as entertainment but also as a means of social bonding and even divination.

The history of sports betting reflects broader societal attitudes toward gambling. In some eras, it was embraced as a harmless pastime or economic driver; in others, it was vilified as a moral vice leading to corruption and crime. Key milestones include the ancient Olympic Games, the rise of horse racing in England, prohibition-era underground operations in the United States, and the recent explosion of online platforms. This article explores this timeline, drawing on historical records to illustrate how betting has shaped—and been shaped by—sports themselves.

As of 2026, the global sports betting market is projected to exceed $150 billion annually, fueled by mobile apps, live betting, and integrations with professional leagues. Yet, this modern boom is built on centuries of precedent. Understanding its history provides context for ongoing debates about regulation, addiction, and integrity in sports.

Ancient Origins

The origins of sports betting can be traced to prehistoric times, with evidence suggesting that early humans gambled on games of chance using rudimentary tools like dice carved from animal bones. Archaeologists have uncovered six-sided dice from Mesopotamia dating back to around 3000 BCE, indicating that betting was intertwined with religious and divinatory practices. In ancient Egypt, between 4000 and 3000 BCE, people wagered on dice games, board games, and physical feats such as chariot racing and fencing. These activities were not merely recreational; they often held cultural significance, with bets symbolizing faith in one's judgment or favor from the gods.

The ancient Greeks elevated betting to a more organized level, particularly through their passion for athletic competitions. The Olympic Games, first held in 776 BCE, became a focal point for wagers. Spectators bet on events like foot races, wrestling, and chariot racing, viewing gambling as an extension of the games' competitive spirit. Philosophers like Plato critiqued excessive gambling, highlighting its prevalence and potential downsides. The Greeks played dice games called "tesserae" in public spaces, and betting on Olympic outcomes was commonplace, blending sport with social and economic elements.

The Romans inherited and expanded upon Greek traditions, making betting a staple of their entertainment empire. Chariot races at the Circus Maximus, which could seat over 150,000 spectators, drew massive crowds and even larger wagers. Gladiatorial contests in the Colosseum, starting around 80 CE, also attracted bets on fighters' survival or victory. Emperors such as Augustus and Nero were notorious gamblers, placing substantial bets on these events. Roman law even designated specific days for legal gambling, acknowledging its cultural entrenchment while attempting to regulate it.

Beyond the Mediterranean, other civilizations engaged in similar practices. In Mesoamerica, variations of the ball game Pitz were played for nearly 3,000 years, beginning around 1400 BCE, with betting integral to the rituals. These early forms of sports betting laid the groundwork for future developments, demonstrating how wagering enhanced the excitement of physical contests and fostered community engagement.

Medieval and Renaissance Periods

As the Roman Empire declined, sports betting persisted through the Middle Ages, though it faced increasing scrutiny from religious authorities. In Europe, betting on tournaments like jousting and archery competitions was common among the nobility and commoners alike. However, the Church viewed gambling as sinful, associating it with idleness and moral decay. Despite this, informal wagers continued, often tied to local festivals and games.

A significant milestone occurred in 1190 when Kings Richard I of England and Philip II of France introduced the first recorded gambling regulations, aimed at curbing excesses among crusaders. These laws restricted betting to higher ranks, reflecting early attempts to control the practice. In England, horse racing emerged as a popular betting sport during this period, with informal races drawing wagers from spectators.

The Renaissance brought a resurgence of organized sports and betting, particularly in Italy and England. Cockfighting and bear-baiting attracted bets, while the revival of classical ideals renewed interest in athletic competitions. By the 16th century, betting on horse races became more structured, with the establishment of tracks like Newmarket in England around 1600. Colonists brought these traditions to the New World, introducing horse racing and betting to America in the 1600s.

During this era, betting began to intersect with emerging financial concepts, such as odds and probabilities, foreshadowing modern bookmaking. However, scandals occasionally erupted, reinforcing calls for regulation. Overall, the medieval and Renaissance periods transitioned sports betting from ancient rituals to a more commercialized activity, setting the stage for its expansion in the modern age.

18th and 19th Centuries: The Rise of Organized Betting

The 18th century marked the professionalization of sports betting, particularly in England, where horse racing flourished. The Jockey Club, founded in 1750, standardized rules and oversaw races, making betting more reliable and attractive. Tattersalls, established in 1766, became a central hub for settling bets, introducing concepts like auction pools that evolved into pari-mutuel systems.

In the United States, horse racing betting took root in the colonies, with the first formal track opening in New York in 1665. By the 19th century, it was a national pastime, with tracks proliferating across the country. The invention of the totalizator in the 1860s by Joseph Oller revolutionized betting by automating odds calculations based on total wagers, ensuring fairness and reducing fraud.

The century also saw the emergence of bookmakers, individuals who accepted bets and set odds. In Britain, figures like Fred Swindell operated legally, while in the U.S., betting pools at tracks became standard. However, corruption loomed large. The 1919 Black Sox Scandal, where Chicago White Sox players fixed the World Series for gamblers, highlighted the dangers of unregulated betting and led to calls for reform.

Other sports entered the fray: Boxing matches drew heavy wagers, and baseball's professionalization in 1876 amplified betting interest. Globally, colonial expansions spread betting practices, with Australia and South Africa developing their own horse racing cultures. This period solidified sports betting as an economic force, but growing scandals paved the way for 20th-century prohibitions.

20th Century: Prohibition and Underground Betting

The early 20th century brought waves of anti-gambling sentiment, particularly in the U.S., where Progressive Era reforms targeted vice. Many states banned betting, driving it underground. During Prohibition (1920-1933), illegal bookies thrived alongside speakeasies, often linked to organized crime. Figures like Arnold Rothstein, implicated in the Black Sox Scandal, exemplified this era's shadowy operations.

Nevada bucked the trend, legalizing gambling in 1931 to boost its economy. In 1949, it authorized sportsbooks, establishing Las Vegas as the betting capital. Turf Clubs operated independently before casinos integrated them in the 1970s. Federal laws like the 1961 Wire Act aimed to curb interstate betting, but enforcement was spotty.

Internationally, the UK legalized off-track betting in 1960, leading to a boom in betting shops. Australia and other nations followed suit with regulated systems. In the U.S., however, the 1992 Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) effectively banned sports betting nationwide, grandfathering Nevada and a few others. This created a black market estimated at $150 billion annually by the 2010s.

Despite restrictions, betting persisted through offshore books and informal pools. Scandals, like the 1951 college basketball point-shaving, underscored integrity risks. The century ended with the internet's advent, as sites like Intertops launched in 1996, challenging traditional models.

Late 20th and 21st Centuries: Legalization and Digital Revolution

The turn of the millennium transformed sports betting through technology and legal shifts. Online platforms emerged in the 1990s, with Antigua and Barbuda licensing the first internet sportsbooks in 1994. This allowed global access, bypassing local laws and fueling growth.

In the U.S., PASPA's dominance ended on May 14, 2018, when the Supreme Court struck it down in Murphy v. NCAA, ruling it unconstitutional. States rushed to legalize, starting with New Jersey. By 2026, over 38 states offer legal sports betting, generating billions in tax revenue. Companies like DraftKings and FanDuel, initially fantasy sports providers, pivoted to dominate the market.

Globally, the UK Gambling Act of 2005 modernized regulations, while countries like Canada and Brazil followed with liberalizations. Mobile apps enabled live, in-play betting, revolutionizing engagement. Partnerships between leagues (e.g., NBA with MGM) normalized betting, despite earlier opposition from figures like NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.

Challenges persist: Addiction rates have risen, prompting responsible gambling initiatives. Integrity concerns led to monitoring bodies like the International Betting Integrity Association. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated online shifts, with esports betting gaining traction.

Looking ahead, blockchain and AI promise more secure, personalized experiences. The industry, once taboo, is now integral to sports economics, with projections of further expansion in emerging markets.

Conclusion

The history of sports betting is a testament to humanity's enduring fascination with chance and competition. From ancient Egyptian chariot races to today's app-based wagers, it has adapted to cultural, legal, and technological changes. While it has driven economic growth and enhanced fan experiences, it has also sparked debates over ethics and regulation. As the industry matures, balancing innovation with safeguards will be key to its sustainable future

The Philosophy of Sports Betting: Risk, Rationality, and Human Nature

Sports betting, at its core, is more than a game of odds—it's a profound intersection of human philosophy, where concepts like chance, decision-making, and morality collide. From ancient dice games in Rome to modern apps tracking NFL spreads, betting on sports has long fascinated thinkers. Philosophers have explored it as a lens into our relationship with uncertainty, revealing insights into ethics, psychology, and the pursuit of meaning in a random world.

Embracing Uncertainty: The Stoic Perspective

One key philosophical thread in sports betting is the acceptance of fate and chance. The ancient Stoics, like Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius, would argue that betting mirrors life's unpredictability. You can control your research—analyzing stats, player form, and weather—but the outcome? That's in the hands of fortune. Betting wisely, then, isn't about guaranteeing wins but about maintaining equanimity in loss. Over-attachment to results leads to suffering, while a detached, informed wager fosters resilience. In this view, sports betting becomes a practice in virtue: bet not for greed, but to test your rationality against chaos.

Modern thinkers echo this. Philosopher Nassim Nicholas Taleb, in works like Fooled by Randomness, highlights how bettors often fall prey to illusions of control. We overestimate our predictive powers, ignoring "black swan" events—like an unexpected injury or referee call. Taleb's antifragility philosophy suggests that smart betting builds systems that thrive on volatility, turning losses into lessons for better future decisions.

The Ethics of Risk: Utilitarianism vs. Deontology

Ethically, sports betting raises questions about harm and responsibility. Utilitarians like John Stuart Mill might weigh the pleasures of excitement and potential gains against the pains of addiction or financial ruin. If betting enhances joy for many while regulated to minimize harm (as in legalized markets), it could be morally defensible. Yet, critics point to exploitation: bookmakers profit from cognitive biases, like the gambler's fallacy, where bettors believe past losses predict future wins.

Deontologists, inspired by Immanuel Kant, take a stricter stance. Betting might violate duties to oneself—treating your mind and wallet as means to an end—or to society, if it encourages irrationality. Is it right to profit from others' misfortunes? Philosophers like Christine Korsgaard argue that true autonomy requires self-respect, which compulsive betting erodes. Thus, the philosophy here urges moderation: bet as a thoughtful choice, not an impulse.

Psychology and the Human Condition

Finally, sports betting philosophically probes human nature. Existentialists like Jean-Paul Sartre might see it as an act of freedom: in a meaningless universe, we create purpose through choices, even risky ones. Betting affirms agency—picking a team is a small rebellion against determinism. Yet, behavioral economists like Daniel Kahneman reveal our flaws: loss aversion makes us chase bad bets, turning philosophy into folly.

In essence, the philosophy of sports betting isn't about winning big; it's a mirror to our souls. It teaches humility in the face of chance, ethical boundaries in pursuit of thrill, and the art of living with uncertainty. Whether you're a casual punter or a pro, remember: the real jackpot is wisdom gained, not dollars won.

The Gambler's Mirage

In the dim glow of his Halifax apartment, Alex hunched over his laptop, the roar of a virtual crowd echoing from the screen. It was Super Bowl Sunday, 2026, and the Nova Scotia winter wind howled outside like a bad omen. Alex wasn't a gambler—not really. He was a data analyst by day, crunching numbers for a tech firm, and he prided himself on logic. But tonight, a $50 bet on the underdog Chiefs felt like a calculated risk. "I've studied the stats," he muttered. "Mahomes is due for a comeback."

The kickoff sent a thrill through him, a dopamine spark that psychologists call the "near-miss effect." Every incomplete pass was agony, every first down a rush. When the Chiefs scored early, Alex's heart raced; his app dinged with virtual confetti. "This is it," he thought. "I'm beating the system." Behavioral economists would nod knowingly—overconfidence bias at work, where wins feel like skill, not luck.

But halftime hit, and the tide turned. A fumble, an interception—suddenly, Alex was down. Loss aversion kicked in, that primal fear of losing more than the joy of winning. "Just one more bet to chase it back," he whispered, doubling down on a prop bet for the second half. The gambler's fallacy whispered lies: after so many losses, a win had to come. His phone buzzed with notifications from the betting app, designed to hook him with personalized odds and "free" bonuses—dark patterns engineered by psychologists to exploit the brain's reward circuits.

As the clock ticked down, Alex's stack dwindled. The final whistle blew; Chiefs lost by a field goal. He slammed the laptop shut, $200 gone, but the real loss was deeper. Regret flooded in, mixed with that insidious itch to try again. "Tomorrow's NBA games," the app teased via push notification. Alex stared at his reflection in the window, seeing not a analyst, but a puppet to probability.

In the quiet aftermath, he deleted the app—or tried to. But psychology is a sly foe; the thrill lingered, a ghost in his mind. Sports betting wasn't just about money; it was a mirror to the human soul, revealing how we chase illusions of control in a chaotic world. Alex learned that night: the house always wins, but the mind plays the longest game.